Welcome to the new Wyatt’s Warriors Foundation website!
Meet Vincent Gregory Boog
Vincent was born September 27, 2016 to Chelsea and Vernon Boog. Their first child, perfect in every way, Vincent had passed all his infant tests with flying colors.
Vincent was home with his parents, who had no idea that anything was wrong until nearly a month later, when Vincent choked in his sleep. A call was made to 911, and Vincent was evaluated at the hospital — where the doctors found several congenital heart defects: a coarctation of the aorta, a complete atrioventricular canal defect, and a ventricular septal defect.
Vincent was transported to Children’s National Medical Center in Washington, D.C. where he underwent 4 open heart surgeries and 3 heart catheterizations.
On December 6, 2016, Vincent earned his wings.
And now meet Vincent’s Mom Chelsea!
Wyatt’s Warriors Foundation connected with the Boogs when Vincent was in the hospital and Chelsea reached out to us for support. And we’ve been connected ever since!
Vincent and Wyatt actually passed away in the very same hospital room — giving Chelsea and Jen a connection not only in grief but in power, purpose, and a heart for others.
Today Chelsea serves on our Board of Directors and gives so much of her time, energy, and talent (for baking, among many other things!) to honoring the memory of our precious sons.
We love you, Chelsea! #wyattswarriors #vincentstrong
More about congenital heart defects (CHDs)
Part of our goal at Wyatt’s Warriors is to spread CHD awareness on behalf of Vincent, Wyatt, and all of our little warriors. Here are some common questions.
What is a congenital heart defect (CHD)?
A congenital heart defect is a problem with the heart’s structure that a baby is born with. These defects can affect the heart’s walls, valves, or blood vessels. They range from simple problems that cause no symptoms to complex issues that require immediate treatment.
How common are congenital heart defects?
Congenital heart defects are the most common type of birth defect, affecting about 1 in 100 babies. Many of these defects are minor and may not need treatment, while others are more serious. Many babies with heart defects do survive into adulthood and will work to manage their condition throughout their lifetime.
Vincent had coarctation of the aorta. What is that?
A coarctation of the aorta is a narrowing of the major artery (the aorta) that carries blood to the body. This narrowing affects blood flow where the arteries branch out to carry blood along separate vessels to the upper and lower parts of the body.
Vincent had a complete atrioventricular canal defect. What is that?
An atrioventricular canal defect is a hole in the wall separating the heart’s chambers as well as problems with the heart valves. In Vincent’s case, this involved all 4 chambers of his heart.
How do you support Heart Parents?
Any family being transferred from TidalHealth Salisbury to a larger hospital for specialized infant care receives a Warrior Care Bag during their transfer. In addition, we provide bags to families as needed at Children’s National Medical Center.
How can I get involved and help out?
We’d love your support! The most impactful way to support Wyatt’s Warriors Foundation is to donate. We also gratefully accept new items ordered from our Amazon wishlist, which are used to fill our Warrior Care Bags.
Are you a local business here in Salisbury or nearby? Then consider sponsoring one of our events! Contact us to learn more.